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Grand Danube Passage

Trip Highlights

Travel through eight European countries to discover Old World capitals and charming villages along the mighty Danube River. Enjoy three nights in Prague, Czech Republic, sail the Danube for eight nights and complete your adventure with two nights in Sofia, Bulgaria. During this exciting journey, discover Roman ruins, castles, cathedrals, synagogues, mosques and fortresses — all part of the complex history of this region. Feast your eyes on gorgeous panoramas of Budapest illuminated at night, the lush Wachau Valley and the immense Iron Gate Gorge, and immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences. Onboard, enjoy a Serbian folk show and a performance of the Viennese waltz. In several ports, choose from a selection of included excursions, featuring culinary outings, cycling, art tours and more. Enjoy first-class ship accommodations and deluxe hotels. The extensive meal plan features wine and beer with lunch and dinner. There is no single supplement for solo travelers.

Day 2

Prague, Czech Republic

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Appropriate in-flight meal service

Arrive at Prague Ruzyně Airport. Proceed through immigration to the baggage claim area and retrieve your luggage. After completing customs, AHI FlexAir passengers traveling on flights that qualify for the group arrival transfer and Land/Cruise Program passengers who have purchased seats on the group transfer should exit the baggage claim area and proceed to the designated meeting spot, where an AHI Travel representative will meet them. The meeting location will
be provided with your final documents. Transfer and check in to Art Deco Imperial Hotel. Please note, if you arrive at the hotel before check-in time, your room may not be immediately available.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Enjoy a stroll to the Town Square or relax in your hotel. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception at your hotel.

Day 3

Prague

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Breakfast

Discovery: Prague Old Town and Charles Bridge. Visit the famous Old Town Horologe (Clock Tower), whose 15th-century astronomical clock still works on its original system of construction. Stroll along Charles Bridge, the city’s most familiar landmark. Savor this gem of medieval architecture and after admiring the view you’ll be on the left bank in Hradcany, where many of Prague’s most famous sites are located.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the day at leisure and make your own discoveries in Prague.

Day 4

Prague

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Breakfast

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Lobkowicz Palace and Museum.
Visit this luxurious 16th-century palace, which is located inside the Prague Castle Complex. See stunning masterpieces, works of art, weapons, ceramics and musical instruments from the 12th-20th centuries. Admire Romanesque and Rococo artifacts and learn about the legacies of the noble Lobkowicz family, whose storied history spans seven centuries.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter.
Explore the Jewish Quarter and the Prague National Jewish Museum. Founded in 1906, the museum has weathered turbulent times under both Nazi and Communist rule. Today, it is a showcase of Jewish history and religious treasures. The collections are housed in the quarter’s six synagogues, and the exhibits provide a comprehensive look at Jewish history in Eastern Europe.

Art Nouveau and Cubist Walking Tour.
Uncover the captivating 20th-century architecture adorning Prague’s streets and squares. As you wend your way through the city, see buildings built in the art nouveau and cubist fashions, and learn to recognize the different elements of these architectural styles, such as their unique angles, geometric patterns and textures. Visit elaborate structures and listen to fascinating historical accounts along the way.

Free Time: The remainder of the afternoon is free to spend time at leisure and craft your own itinerary in Prague.

Day 5

Prague/Passau, Germany

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast and dinner

Following breakfast, transfer to Passau, Germany.

Discovery: Picturesque Passau. Nestled at the confluence of the Danube, Ilz and Inn rivers, Passau has been called “one of the most beautifully situated towns in the world.” See the many highlights of this delightful city including Niedernburg Abbey, the medieval Veste Oberhaus and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Embark your first-class river ship.This evening, gather with fellow travelers for a Welcome Aboard Reception, followed by dinner.

Day 6

Melk, Austria/Dürnstein/ Vienna

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Discovery: Melk Abbey. Visit Melk’s Benedictine abbey, an architectural jewel with impressive interiors that also is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The baroque building dates from 1736, and an amazing view of the mighty Danube waits on the abbey’s terrace.

This afternoon, enjoy daytime sailing through the picturesque Wachau Valley on your way to Dürnstein. The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest landscapes in all of Europe. Along the way, admire pretty villages clustered around charming churches and medieval castles.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Dürnstein Walking Tour.
In quaint Dürnstein, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive
during the Crusades, tour baroque architecture, pass by gorgeous scenery, see vineyards that produce award-winning wine and visit the magnificent Stiftskirche, known for its blue tower.

Cycling the Danube.
Considered one of the most beautiful towns in the Wachau Valley, Dürnstein offers an ideal
setting for a leisurely and scenic bike ride. Along the way, see quaint villages set against the Danube and lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley with an expert guide. (Active)

Wachau Winery.
Head out of Dürnstein, passing stunning vineyards and lush scenery en route to a local winery, where you will enjoy a tour and samples from its cellar.

Day 7

Vienna

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: Timeless Vienna. Discover the history of Vienna, an elegant and timeless city.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Imperial Vienna.
Explore the Imperial Apartments of Hofburg Palace and admire their sumptuous appointments, then drive along the Ringstrasse, one of the most magnificent boulevards in the world. See the University, the oldest in the German-speaking countries, the Houses of Parliament, the Opera House and monuments to Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Klosterneuburg Monastery and Wine.
Journey north of Vienna to nearby Klosterneuburg. Overlooking the Danube is its 12th-century monastery, home to the gilded copper Verdun Altar and a wine estate, the oldest in Austria. Explore the monastery’s winding cellar as you learn about the craft of wine making, then enjoy a tasting.

Schönbrunn Palace.
Visit this grand palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former residence of the imperial family. See the Hall of Mirrors where six-year- old Mozart played for Empress Maria Theresa. Admire the ornate State Apartments with their opulent ceiling frescoes, and stroll through the estate’s extensive gardens, resplendent with fountains and topiary.

Free Time: Spend the afternoon at leisure in Vienna, perhaps stopping in a café for a Viennese coffee and Sacher Torte, the famous Austrian cake.

Discovery: Viennese Waltz. Following dinner, gather with your fellow travelers for a waltz lesson. Delight in an evening of Viennese Waltz as your Austrian ballroom guides pass on secrets of ballroom etiquette, tips for a successful ballroom occasion and how to master steps of the original Viennese Waltz. Try the steps yourself and glide across the dance floor!

Day 8

Bratislava, Slovakia

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: The Velvet Revolution. Learn about the Velvet Revolution, a pivotal event that led to the end of communism in Czechoslovakia and preceded the country’s split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Old Town and Cafe.
Enjoy enchanting Bratislava, a medieval town with a rich past. Marvel at St. Martin’s Cathedral, once the site of Hungarian coronations. See the Slovak National Theatre and St. Michael’s Gate, the only remaining gate of the city’s medieval fortifications. Continue to Primate’s Palace, where Hungarian archbishops spend their winters. Then visit a café for a pastry tasting. Old Town and Music. Once the stage for Mozart, Beethoven, Hummel and more, Bratislava has a storied musical history. Explore Old Town, focusing on the venues associated with these renowned composers. Then go inside a rococo palace where a special music concert will be performed.

Iron Curtain Bike Tour.
Enjoy a leisurely bike tour along the Danube that explores the Slovak-Austrian border, once part of the Iron Curtain. As you ride on both the left and the right banks of the Danube, enjoy vistas of the marvelous Bratislava castle, see a pre-WWII bunker and learn about the area’s urban transformation. (Active)

Day 9

Budapest, Hungary

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Highlights of Budapest.
This capital was once two cities — Buda and Pest — on opposite sides of the Danube, which flows through the center of the visually spectacular and united city. Visit Heroes’ Square, the Opera House and the Gothic-style Parliament building. Enjoy stunning panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion and marvel at the stunning architecture of the 700-year- old Matthias Church.

Living Local.
Take a guided tour of Budapest’s bustling Great Market Hall, built in the 19th century. Peruse the food and craft stalls that span three floors of this historic structure. Continue to a local coffee house to learn how pastry chefs craft the flakiest, tastiest strudels. Enjoy a piece of strudel with coffee or tea and a sampling of Palinka, or Eastern European schnapps.

Jewish Interest Tour.
Explore Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, including a visit to the 19th-century Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe. The synagogue includes Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home of the Holocaust Memorial — or Emanuel Tree — an artistic rendering of a willow tree inscribed with the names of Hungarian Jews lost during the Holocaust. Continue to the Glass House, which gained notoriety as a hiding place for Jews during the Holocaust, and Shoes on the Danube, a moving tribute to the Jews who fell into the Danube after being shot by Nazis in the mid-1940s. Visit the Páva Street Synagogue and end your tour at the Holocaust Memorial Center.

Discovery: Budapest by Night. As your ship departs this evening, delight in the sparkling, awe-inspiring panoramas of Budapest at night. The city’s architecture bordering the Danube is illuminated with vivid auburn and butter-toned hues, providing an unforgettable moment during your journey. Sail past the beautiful Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Chain Bridge and more while admiring their rosy reflections cast on the Danube’s surface.

Day 10

Pécs/Osijek, Croatia/Vukovar

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Discovery: Pécs. Enjoy a walking tour of Pécs, a city known for its Roman ruins and Ottoman mosques, which have been turned into churches. Also, discover the flavors of the region during a wine tasting. Gather for lunch in a local restaurant.

Discovery: Osijek and Vukovar. Begin your outing in Croatia’s Slavonia region with a visit to Rural House in Kopačevo. Watch a short presentation and learn about typical traditions of the area during a video. Then taste typical Slavonian products and delicacies including Ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant relish; Šljivovica (or Slivovitz), a homemade plum brandy; and smoked pork sausage. Continue to Osijek, Croatia’s fourth-largest town. This village, which hugs the River Drava, has seventeen parks and an impressive well-preserved historic neighborhood called Tvrda, or “citadel.” Take a walking tour along Osijek’s cobbled streets and see its collection of baroque buildings, military complexes and university facilities. See the plague column, built in 1729. This monument gives thanks for protection from a plague outbreak, which killed a third of the city’s population.

Conclude your excursion today with a visit to Vukovar, the “town on the Vuka River.” Vukovar’s infrastructure, including most of its monuments and baroque buildings, was mostly destroyed in 1991 during a three-month siege by the Yugoslav National Army. As a symbol of strength and courage, Vukovar began rebuilding and restoring its treasures in 1997 and today, many buildings have been returned to their former glory. Embark on a panoramic tour of the historical city center. Along the way, see baroque arches along the main street, churches, palaces and many other beautiful buildings.

Rejoin the ship and sail on to Belgrade, Serbia.

Day 11

Belgrade, Serbia

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: Modern Serbia. Get an in-depth look at life in the former Yugoslavian state of Serbia.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Belgrade City Highlights.
Enjoy a visit to Kalemegdan Citadel. This impressive structure served as a fort since Celtic times, but much of its present appearance dates from the 17th century. The gates of the citadel are medieval, while the churches are affiliated with the Orthodox faith. The tombs are Muslim and the bath is Turkish. These characteristics reflect the different cultures that have shaped Serbia throughout the centuries. Take in the sights as you drive through Belgrade’s main streets. Visit St. Sava Cathedral and the Church of Saint Paraskeva (Sveta Petka), one of the most exquisite of Serbia’s Orthodox churches.

Eating Like a Local in Belgrade.
Prepare to delight your taste buds today as you take a sensory journey of Serbian gastronomy. From ustipak (donut-like balls) to kajmak (clotted cream) to Rakija (local brandy), you’ll encounter a fusion of spices, textures and belly-pleasing flavors. Along the way, learn about the storied customs and traditions that have influenced today’s food culture in Serbia. Then end the tour with a BBQ of minced meats, sweet treats and local wines.

Science and Scientist Tour.
Explore the Nikola Tesla Museum. Through interactive exhibits, more than 160,000 original documents and short films, learn how the 19th-century inventor Nikola Tesla left his imprint on wireless technology. The ashes of this remarkable engineer, who is recognized as the father of the electric age and pioneer of radio technology, are also kept on the premises.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure in Belgrade. A shuttle will be available for transport to and from the port.

Discovery: An Evening of Folklore. Following dinner tonight, enjoy an engaging and colorful local folk show on board the ship.

Day 12

Iron Gate Gorge, Romania/ Drobeta-Turnu Severin

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Sail past the dramatic cliffs of the Carpathian Mountains. Enter the Iron Gate Gorge, one of Europe’s most magnificent natural wonders. The gorge is a passage that is only 530 feet (about 160 meters) wide. Watching the Danube thunder through the gap is a truly thrilling experience. This geological wonder is part of the boundary between Romania and Serbia.

Discovery: Frühschoppen! Laze on deck and join the crew for a fun social event. Eat, drink and be merry as you enjoy the German tradition of drinking beer with Brezeln (pretzels), Weißwurst (sausages) and mustards. Pause in Drobeta to briefly stretch your legs. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Aboard Reception on the ship followed by dinner.

Day 13

Vidin, Bulgaria/Sofia

Sofia Hotel Balkan, Breakfast and lunch

Following breakfast, disembark the ship.

Discovery: The Ancient City of Vidin. One of Bulgaria’s oldest towns, Vidin was settled by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago. During a panoramic tour of the town, see the mosque and library of Osman Pazvantouglu and other highlights. Visit the 17th-century St. Panteleimon Church and the Baba Vida Fortress. Savor a memorable lunch and stunning views of rock formations at The Rocks restaurant in Belogradchik.

Transfer to Sofia and check in to the Sofia Hotel Balkan.

Day 14

Sofia

Sofia Hotel Balkan, Breakfast and dinner

Enrichment: A Prologue to the Bulgarian Revival. The Middle Ages were ending when Ottoman invaders claimed Bulgaria for their empire in the 14th century. Learn about the conditions and events that led to the Bulgarian Revival of the 19th century when Ottoman forces were defeated and expelled.

Discovery: Sofia – City with the Name of Wisdom. From its ancient history to its unique geographical location, Bulgaria’s capital is a fascinating wonder. Today, discover the many landmarks of Bulgaria’s capital. See the ancient ruins of Serdica. Admire St. George Rotunda, Alexander Battenberg Square, home to the former Royal Palace, and the Cathedral of St. Alexander of Neva.

Free Time: The remainder of the day is free to continue exploring Sofia on your own.
In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Reception and Dinner at your hotel.

Day 15

Depart for gateway city

Breakfast and appropriate in-flight meal service

After breakfast, AHI FlexAir passengers traveling on flights that qualify for a group transfer and Land/Cruise Program passengers who have purchased seats on the group transfer depart for Sofia Airport for your return flights home. Your Travel Director will provide the details.

Full Itinerary

Jacqueline Vansant

I was born in Delaware and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. My interest in Austria began when I spent my Junior Year in Salzburg in 1974-75. However, it really blossomed during my second stay there when I was a teaching assistant in 1978-79 when I spent considerable time reading literature by Austrian women writers. This lead to my dissertation on five Austria women writers (University of Texas-Austin, 1986). In my academic life I have focused on Austrian women writers, on memoirs and letters by Jewish Austrians, who fled after the Anschluss in 1938, and on the image of Austria in Hollywood films. My most recent publication related to this topic is Austria, Made in Hollywood (Camden House, February 2019).
The first time I saw the Danube was in 1974 on a trip to Vienna. Having heard so much about the river and its association with the Austrian capital, I remember being surprised to find that it didn’t flow through the center of Vienna. Since then I have had the opportunity to bike along the river and to take short boat trips along sections of it in Austria. However, I have long wanted to take a longer trip along this fabled river. In my most recent research project it is featured as an important escape route for youth fleeing Austria to Palestine. The Grand Danube Trip offers so much in culture and natural beauty and I look forward to sharing my excitement and knowledge about the river.

Questions?

Trip Highlights

Travel through eight European countries to discover Old World capitals and charming villages along the mighty Danube River. Enjoy three nights in Prague, Czech Republic, sail the Danube for eight nights and complete your adventure with two nights in Sofia, Bulgaria. During this exciting journey, discover Roman ruins, castles, cathedrals, synagogues, mosques and fortresses — all part of the complex history of this region. Feast your eyes on gorgeous panoramas of Budapest illuminated at night, the lush Wachau Valley and the immense Iron Gate Gorge, and immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences. Onboard, enjoy a Serbian folk show and a performance of the Viennese waltz. In several ports, choose from a selection of included excursions, featuring culinary outings, cycling, art tours and more. Enjoy first-class ship accommodations and deluxe hotels. The extensive meal plan features wine and beer with lunch and dinner. There is no single supplement for solo travelers.

Day 2

Prague, Czech Republic

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Appropriate in-flight meal service

Arrive at Prague Ruzyně Airport. Proceed through immigration to the baggage claim area and retrieve your luggage. After completing customs, AHI FlexAir passengers traveling on flights that qualify for the group arrival transfer and Land/Cruise Program passengers who have purchased seats on the group transfer should exit the baggage claim area and proceed to the designated meeting spot, where an AHI Travel representative will meet them. The meeting location will
be provided with your final documents. Transfer and check in to Art Deco Imperial Hotel. Please note, if you arrive at the hotel before check-in time, your room may not be immediately available.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Enjoy a stroll to the Town Square or relax in your hotel. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception at your hotel.

Day 3

Prague

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Breakfast

Discovery: Prague Old Town and Charles Bridge. Visit the famous Old Town Horologe (Clock Tower), whose 15th-century astronomical clock still works on its original system of construction. Stroll along Charles Bridge, the city’s most familiar landmark. Savor this gem of medieval architecture and after admiring the view you’ll be on the left bank in Hradcany, where many of Prague’s most famous sites are located.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the day at leisure and make your own discoveries in Prague.

Day 4

Prague

Art Deco Imperial Hotel, Breakfast

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Lobkowicz Palace and Museum.
Visit this luxurious 16th-century palace, which is located inside the Prague Castle Complex. See stunning masterpieces, works of art, weapons, ceramics and musical instruments from the 12th-20th centuries. Admire Romanesque and Rococo artifacts and learn about the legacies of the noble Lobkowicz family, whose storied history spans seven centuries.

Prague’s Jewish Quarter.
Explore the Jewish Quarter and the Prague National Jewish Museum. Founded in 1906, the museum has weathered turbulent times under both Nazi and Communist rule. Today, it is a showcase of Jewish history and religious treasures. The collections are housed in the quarter’s six synagogues, and the exhibits provide a comprehensive look at Jewish history in Eastern Europe.

Art Nouveau and Cubist Walking Tour.
Uncover the captivating 20th-century architecture adorning Prague’s streets and squares. As you wend your way through the city, see buildings built in the art nouveau and cubist fashions, and learn to recognize the different elements of these architectural styles, such as their unique angles, geometric patterns and textures. Visit elaborate structures and listen to fascinating historical accounts along the way.

Free Time: The remainder of the afternoon is free to spend time at leisure and craft your own itinerary in Prague.

Day 5

Prague/Passau, Germany

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast and dinner

Following breakfast, transfer to Passau, Germany.

Discovery: Picturesque Passau. Nestled at the confluence of the Danube, Ilz and Inn rivers, Passau has been called “one of the most beautifully situated towns in the world.” See the many highlights of this delightful city including Niedernburg Abbey, the medieval Veste Oberhaus and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Embark your first-class river ship.This evening, gather with fellow travelers for a Welcome Aboard Reception, followed by dinner.

Day 6

Melk, Austria/Dürnstein/ Vienna

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Discovery: Melk Abbey. Visit Melk’s Benedictine abbey, an architectural jewel with impressive interiors that also is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The baroque building dates from 1736, and an amazing view of the mighty Danube waits on the abbey’s terrace.

This afternoon, enjoy daytime sailing through the picturesque Wachau Valley on your way to Dürnstein. The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest landscapes in all of Europe. Along the way, admire pretty villages clustered around charming churches and medieval castles.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Dürnstein Walking Tour.
In quaint Dürnstein, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive
during the Crusades, tour baroque architecture, pass by gorgeous scenery, see vineyards that produce award-winning wine and visit the magnificent Stiftskirche, known for its blue tower.

Cycling the Danube.
Considered one of the most beautiful towns in the Wachau Valley, Dürnstein offers an ideal
setting for a leisurely and scenic bike ride. Along the way, see quaint villages set against the Danube and lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley with an expert guide. (Active)

Wachau Winery.
Head out of Dürnstein, passing stunning vineyards and lush scenery en route to a local winery, where you will enjoy a tour and samples from its cellar.

Day 7

Vienna

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: Timeless Vienna. Discover the history of Vienna, an elegant and timeless city.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Imperial Vienna.
Explore the Imperial Apartments of Hofburg Palace and admire their sumptuous appointments, then drive along the Ringstrasse, one of the most magnificent boulevards in the world. See the University, the oldest in the German-speaking countries, the Houses of Parliament, the Opera House and monuments to Johann Strauss and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Klosterneuburg Monastery and Wine.
Journey north of Vienna to nearby Klosterneuburg. Overlooking the Danube is its 12th-century monastery, home to the gilded copper Verdun Altar and a wine estate, the oldest in Austria. Explore the monastery’s winding cellar as you learn about the craft of wine making, then enjoy a tasting.

Schönbrunn Palace.
Visit this grand palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former residence of the imperial family. See the Hall of Mirrors where six-year- old Mozart played for Empress Maria Theresa. Admire the ornate State Apartments with their opulent ceiling frescoes, and stroll through the estate’s extensive gardens, resplendent with fountains and topiary.

Free Time: Spend the afternoon at leisure in Vienna, perhaps stopping in a café for a Viennese coffee and Sacher Torte, the famous Austrian cake.

Discovery: Viennese Waltz. Following dinner, gather with your fellow travelers for a waltz lesson. Delight in an evening of Viennese Waltz as your Austrian ballroom guides pass on secrets of ballroom etiquette, tips for a successful ballroom occasion and how to master steps of the original Viennese Waltz. Try the steps yourself and glide across the dance floor!

Day 8

Bratislava, Slovakia

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: The Velvet Revolution. Learn about the Velvet Revolution, a pivotal event that led to the end of communism in Czechoslovakia and preceded the country’s split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Old Town and Cafe.
Enjoy enchanting Bratislava, a medieval town with a rich past. Marvel at St. Martin’s Cathedral, once the site of Hungarian coronations. See the Slovak National Theatre and St. Michael’s Gate, the only remaining gate of the city’s medieval fortifications. Continue to Primate’s Palace, where Hungarian archbishops spend their winters. Then visit a café for a pastry tasting. Old Town and Music. Once the stage for Mozart, Beethoven, Hummel and more, Bratislava has a storied musical history. Explore Old Town, focusing on the venues associated with these renowned composers. Then go inside a rococo palace where a special music concert will be performed.

Iron Curtain Bike Tour.
Enjoy a leisurely bike tour along the Danube that explores the Slovak-Austrian border, once part of the Iron Curtain. As you ride on both the left and the right banks of the Danube, enjoy vistas of the marvelous Bratislava castle, see a pre-WWII bunker and learn about the area’s urban transformation. (Active)

Day 9

Budapest, Hungary

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Highlights of Budapest.
This capital was once two cities — Buda and Pest — on opposite sides of the Danube, which flows through the center of the visually spectacular and united city. Visit Heroes’ Square, the Opera House and the Gothic-style Parliament building. Enjoy stunning panoramic views from Fisherman’s Bastion and marvel at the stunning architecture of the 700-year- old Matthias Church.

Living Local.
Take a guided tour of Budapest’s bustling Great Market Hall, built in the 19th century. Peruse the food and craft stalls that span three floors of this historic structure. Continue to a local coffee house to learn how pastry chefs craft the flakiest, tastiest strudels. Enjoy a piece of strudel with coffee or tea and a sampling of Palinka, or Eastern European schnapps.

Jewish Interest Tour.
Explore Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, including a visit to the 19th-century Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe. The synagogue includes Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park, home of the Holocaust Memorial — or Emanuel Tree — an artistic rendering of a willow tree inscribed with the names of Hungarian Jews lost during the Holocaust. Continue to the Glass House, which gained notoriety as a hiding place for Jews during the Holocaust, and Shoes on the Danube, a moving tribute to the Jews who fell into the Danube after being shot by Nazis in the mid-1940s. Visit the Páva Street Synagogue and end your tour at the Holocaust Memorial Center.

Discovery: Budapest by Night. As your ship departs this evening, delight in the sparkling, awe-inspiring panoramas of Budapest at night. The city’s architecture bordering the Danube is illuminated with vivid auburn and butter-toned hues, providing an unforgettable moment during your journey. Sail past the beautiful Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Chain Bridge and more while admiring their rosy reflections cast on the Danube’s surface.

Day 10

Pécs/Osijek, Croatia/Vukovar

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Discovery: Pécs. Enjoy a walking tour of Pécs, a city known for its Roman ruins and Ottoman mosques, which have been turned into churches. Also, discover the flavors of the region during a wine tasting. Gather for lunch in a local restaurant.

Discovery: Osijek and Vukovar. Begin your outing in Croatia’s Slavonia region with a visit to Rural House in Kopačevo. Watch a short presentation and learn about typical traditions of the area during a video. Then taste typical Slavonian products and delicacies including Ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant relish; Šljivovica (or Slivovitz), a homemade plum brandy; and smoked pork sausage. Continue to Osijek, Croatia’s fourth-largest town. This village, which hugs the River Drava, has seventeen parks and an impressive well-preserved historic neighborhood called Tvrda, or “citadel.” Take a walking tour along Osijek’s cobbled streets and see its collection of baroque buildings, military complexes and university facilities. See the plague column, built in 1729. This monument gives thanks for protection from a plague outbreak, which killed a third of the city’s population.

Conclude your excursion today with a visit to Vukovar, the “town on the Vuka River.” Vukovar’s infrastructure, including most of its monuments and baroque buildings, was mostly destroyed in 1991 during a three-month siege by the Yugoslav National Army. As a symbol of strength and courage, Vukovar began rebuilding and restoring its treasures in 1997 and today, many buildings have been returned to their former glory. Embark on a panoramic tour of the historical city center. Along the way, see baroque arches along the main street, churches, palaces and many other beautiful buildings.

Rejoin the ship and sail on to Belgrade, Serbia.

Day 11

Belgrade, Serbia

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enrichment: Modern Serbia. Get an in-depth look at life in the former Yugoslavian state of Serbia.

Personalize Your Cruise: Choose one of the following excursions.

Belgrade City Highlights.
Enjoy a visit to Kalemegdan Citadel. This impressive structure served as a fort since Celtic times, but much of its present appearance dates from the 17th century. The gates of the citadel are medieval, while the churches are affiliated with the Orthodox faith. The tombs are Muslim and the bath is Turkish. These characteristics reflect the different cultures that have shaped Serbia throughout the centuries. Take in the sights as you drive through Belgrade’s main streets. Visit St. Sava Cathedral and the Church of Saint Paraskeva (Sveta Petka), one of the most exquisite of Serbia’s Orthodox churches.

Eating Like a Local in Belgrade.
Prepare to delight your taste buds today as you take a sensory journey of Serbian gastronomy. From ustipak (donut-like balls) to kajmak (clotted cream) to Rakija (local brandy), you’ll encounter a fusion of spices, textures and belly-pleasing flavors. Along the way, learn about the storied customs and traditions that have influenced today’s food culture in Serbia. Then end the tour with a BBQ of minced meats, sweet treats and local wines.

Science and Scientist Tour.
Explore the Nikola Tesla Museum. Through interactive exhibits, more than 160,000 original documents and short films, learn how the 19th-century inventor Nikola Tesla left his imprint on wireless technology. The ashes of this remarkable engineer, who is recognized as the father of the electric age and pioneer of radio technology, are also kept on the premises.

Free Time: Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure in Belgrade. A shuttle will be available for transport to and from the port.

Discovery: An Evening of Folklore. Following dinner tonight, enjoy an engaging and colorful local folk show on board the ship.

Day 12

Iron Gate Gorge, Romania/ Drobeta-Turnu Severin

MS Amadeus Star, Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Sail past the dramatic cliffs of the Carpathian Mountains. Enter the Iron Gate Gorge, one of Europe’s most magnificent natural wonders. The gorge is a passage that is only 530 feet (about 160 meters) wide. Watching the Danube thunder through the gap is a truly thrilling experience. This geological wonder is part of the boundary between Romania and Serbia.

Discovery: Frühschoppen! Laze on deck and join the crew for a fun social event. Eat, drink and be merry as you enjoy the German tradition of drinking beer with Brezeln (pretzels), Weißwurst (sausages) and mustards. Pause in Drobeta to briefly stretch your legs. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Aboard Reception on the ship followed by dinner.

Day 13

Vidin, Bulgaria/Sofia

Sofia Hotel Balkan, Breakfast and lunch

Following breakfast, disembark the ship.

Discovery: The Ancient City of Vidin. One of Bulgaria’s oldest towns, Vidin was settled by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago. During a panoramic tour of the town, see the mosque and library of Osman Pazvantouglu and other highlights. Visit the 17th-century St. Panteleimon Church and the Baba Vida Fortress. Savor a memorable lunch and stunning views of rock formations at The Rocks restaurant in Belogradchik.

Transfer to Sofia and check in to the Sofia Hotel Balkan.

Day 14

Sofia

Sofia Hotel Balkan, Breakfast and dinner

Enrichment: A Prologue to the Bulgarian Revival. The Middle Ages were ending when Ottoman invaders claimed Bulgaria for their empire in the 14th century. Learn about the conditions and events that led to the Bulgarian Revival of the 19th century when Ottoman forces were defeated and expelled.

Discovery: Sofia – City with the Name of Wisdom. From its ancient history to its unique geographical location, Bulgaria’s capital is a fascinating wonder. Today, discover the many landmarks of Bulgaria’s capital. See the ancient ruins of Serdica. Admire St. George Rotunda, Alexander Battenberg Square, home to the former Royal Palace, and the Cathedral of St. Alexander of Neva.

Free Time: The remainder of the day is free to continue exploring Sofia on your own.
In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Reception and Dinner at your hotel.

Day 15

Depart for gateway city

Breakfast and appropriate in-flight meal service

After breakfast, AHI FlexAir passengers traveling on flights that qualify for a group transfer and Land/Cruise Program passengers who have purchased seats on the group transfer depart for Sofia Airport for your return flights home. Your Travel Director will provide the details.

Full Itinerary

Your Journey

Meet Your Trip Host

Jacqueline Vansant

I was born in Delaware and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. My interest in Austria began when I spent my Junior Year in Salzburg in 1974-75. However, it really blossomed during my second stay there when I was a teaching assistant in 1978-79 when I spent considerable time reading literature by Austrian women writers. This lead to my dissertation on five Austria women writers (University of Texas-Austin, 1986). In my academic life I have focused on Austrian women writers, on memoirs and letters by Jewish Austrians, who fled after the Anschluss in 1938, and on the image of Austria in Hollywood films. My most recent publication related to this topic is Austria, Made in Hollywood (Camden House, February 2019).
The first time I saw the Danube was in 1974 on a trip to Vienna. Having heard so much about the river and its association with the Austrian capital, I remember being surprised to find that it didn’t flow through the center of Vienna. Since then I have had the opportunity to bike along the river and to take short boat trips along sections of it in Austria. However, I have long wanted to take a longer trip along this fabled river. In my most recent research project it is featured as an important escape route for youth fleeing Austria to Palestine. The Grand Danube Trip offers so much in culture and natural beauty and I look forward to sharing my excitement and knowledge about the river.

By participating in an Alumni Association of University of Michigan travel trip, you have stated that the Alumni Association has the exclusive right to use video and other visual/audio portrayals of You or Your likeness taken during Your trip in any medium of any nature whatsoever for any purpose, including advertising or promoting the services of the trip without any compensation being paid to You. Any such portrayal or likeness shall be the exclusive property of the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan.